Islamabad 7 August: Mobile internet data services have been suspended across Balochistan, including the provincial capital Quetta, due to heightened security concerns, provincial authorities confirmed.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced that the indefinite shutdown affects multiple districts, including Kohlu, Chaman, Qila Abdullah, Pishin, Loralai, Ziarat, Qila Saifullah, Nushki, and Harnai, and is expected to remain in place until at least August 15, 2025, with no official end date specified.
The suspension, described as a preventive measure against potential security threats, has caused widespread disruption for residents. Students are unable to access online classes, while freelancers and online business operators face significant challenges due to the loss of connectivity. Local communities have expressed frustration over the lack of communication and its impact on education and livelihoods.
Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate, citing the necessity of the measure for public safety, but the prolonged outage has sparked concerns about economic and educational setbacks in the region.
